We reduce the gospel only to social teaching the day we lose sight of heaven. The sharing of the gospel cannot be reduced to motivational speaking. Heaven remains our home. And our inclusion in God’s kingdom here on earth gives us a taste of eternity. Standing for the gospel values entails cherishing our relationship with God above every earthly affiliation.
In the book of Ecclesiastes 1:2, we understand that all is vanity. “Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. Sometimes a person who has toiled with wisdom and knowledge and skill must leave everything to be enjoyed by someone who did not toil for it. This also is vanity and a great evil.”
It is an actual fact that both the good and the bad shall surely die and leave their wealth to others to enjoy. What is left to them is the fruits of their life on earth; the ties they have with God. Living with God in eternity cannot be compared to any other. Living out the gospel values unite us with God and enshrine our thoughts in the collective memory of the people in our society or community.
In his letter to the Colossians, Paul boldly said, “Brothers and Sisters: If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”
To the man seeking his help in dividing the inheritance with his brother, Jesus said: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of one’s possessions.”
Hence, in a nation, where essential amenities are provided, true worshipers are those who seek for meaning, which can only be found in God. The care for survival or material acquisition show sign of poverty, either physical or spiritual. Our longing for God and crave for heaven is an indication of our ties with God
Our true fulfilment can only be found in God and in serving him alone.
May we always love God and never lose sight of our journey into eternity. Amen.
